(Security Council) Security Council Press Statement on Signing of Joint Declaration of Peace and Friendship between Eritrea and Ethiopia on 9 July 2018

Security Council Press Statement on Signing of Joint Declaration of Peace and Friendship between Eritrea and Ethiopia on 9 July 2018

The members of the Security Council commended the signing of the Joint Declaration of Peace and Friendship on 9 July 2018 by the President of the State of Eritrea, Isaias Afwerki, and the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed. They welcomed the commitment by both parties to resume diplomatic ties and open a new chapter of cooperation and partnership. They also took note of the five-point plan and welcomed the agreement to implement the decision by the Ethiopia-Eritrea Boundary Commission.

The members of the Security Council noted that this represents a historic and significant development with far-reaching positive consequences for the Horn of Africa and beyond.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the commitment of Eritrea and Ethiopia to jointly endeavour to ensure regional peace, development and cooperation and look forward to Eritrea’s active participation in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

The members of the Security Council recognized the call in the Joint Declaration for solidarity and support and encouraged all actors to offer their support to the peace process. The members of the Security Council stand ready to support Eritrea and Ethiopia in their implementation of the Joint Declaration.

The members of the Security Council took note of the Secretary-General’s offer to support the process. Furthermore, they took note of the statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission welcoming the recent developments and encouraging Eritrea and Ethiopia to persevere on this path, opening a new chapter of cooperation and good neighbourliness.